12.26.2009
11.25.2009
BONE STRUCTURE
A study in Ostio-Couture
By Logan Salter
By Logan Salter
Recently I teamed up with phenomenal photographer, Ian Pool to make one of his recent creative ideas come to life! With the help of a skeleton, a lot of patience and two of my favorite dresses from Fashion Crimes, we ended up with the images you see before you.
Originally there was a model. She slipped into the dresses and posed for the camera.Later, Ian picked several images that he thought worked well with the models body; these images would be used as a diagram to follow when recreating the pose with the skeleton.
Ian and I posed the bones just like in the image, using a coat hanger to prop up the arm, and tape to keep the hands in place.
Later on in post editing he would take the images and piece them together, removing the model completely, and inserting the skeleton into the shot.How he did it so quickly, and efficiently is beyond me; the end result is an editorial concept that has me thinking that beauty really is only skin deep.
10.16.2009
Halloween Costumes - Week one!
Halloween at Fashion Crimes isn’t your regular Halloween.
Here we take it very seriously, so serious in fact- that we dress up for almost an entire month! Our staff are also having a costume-off and at the end of the month and we will be featuring a winner, so please comment with your favorite picks of the week!
This weekend past (October 11 & 12) was our first weekend of crazy costumes and Halloween excitement that can be found within the abundant inventory. We saw Nuns, Flappers, a lost member of the Jonas Brothers stopped by, as well as the Spice Girls in full girl power force!
Saturday : (L-R) Carly as a glamorous Pirate complete with a Cardinal in place of a parrot, Sister Carrie looking very authentic, Kat as a flight attendant from “Kitten Airways”, Logan as the 4th member of the Jonas Brothers (complete with a purity ring!), Katrina - the not so French, French maid, Kanchana as a fun flapper straight from the dirty 30’s, and Robyn as a fierce kitten.
The Spice Girls on Sunday called for an appropriate soundtrack adjustment.
9.30.2009
FAME Premiere Afterparty
We had so much fun at the MGM Premiere of FAME After-Party at the Randolph Academy... here are a few of the highlights and images of Fashion Crimes gracing the Purple Carpet!
Actress Kerry Laifatt
Photographer: Paul Baik
Pam Chorley looking amazing!
(The glamorous life of a fashion designer - after a full day that started at 8am for meetings
with fabric suppliers & accessory reps,
creating cutting sheets, responding to client e-mails, a full STAFF MEETING and then to the FAME event at 10pm!)
Photographer: Paul Baik
So You Think You Can Dance Finalist Tamina Paris-Pollack
Photographer: Paul Baik
The Fashion Crimes' crew (L-R: Logan, Crystal, Kat, Pam, & Kanchana) with the famously chic Anita Clarke, editor in cheif of I want- I got.
So You Think You Can Dance Finalist Tamina Paris-Pollack
Photographer: Paul Baik
The Fashion Crimes' crew (L-R: Logan, Crystal, Kat, Pam, & Kanchana) with the famously chic Anita Clarke, editor in cheif of I want- I got.
9.28.2009
Nuit Blanche & Out of Sight on Queen West
Next week-end the city will be alive all night long with the dynamic installations for Nuit Blanche 09 and this years' "Out of Sight" festival, curated by Earl Miller for Queen Street West.
9.24.2009
TIFF '09 Red Carpet Roster
Gorgeous garments and glitz were all over the red carpet for TIFF earlier this month, and we are so happy to see that many of the designs were from here at home in Toronto!
Actress Monika Schnarre attends ET Canada Presents "Glorious 39" Gala at 144 Cumberland Street on September 14, 2009.
Actress Tara Spencer-Nairn and dancer Jean Marc Genereux attend the Holt Renfrew launch of Vignettes with Alexa Chung, Coco Rocha and The Stills held at the Burroughes Building on September 12, 2009.
Ainsley Kerr attends the "Steve Nash Shoot For The Stars" at Harry Rosen, as well as the "Antichrist" North American Premiere After Party held at W Studio
on September 10, 2009.
Liz West was reporting live from the red carpet all festival long for CP24. Her wardrobe choices for all of the events were exclusively Fashion Crimes.
Co-founders of the Style Box, Amanda Brugel (at the Holt Renfrew launch) and Gail McInnes (at the "Steve Nash Shoot For The Stars" gala), both shot by photographer G.Pimentel
...and a little peek at what happens behind the scenes when dressing the stars, courtesy of The Style Box for FASHION MAGAZINE:
Some of the FC features include:
Actress Monika Schnarre attends ET Canada Presents "Glorious 39" Gala at 144 Cumberland Street on September 14, 2009.
Photographer - A. Moore
Actress Tara Spencer-Nairn and dancer Jean Marc Genereux attend the Holt Renfrew launch of Vignettes with Alexa Chung, Coco Rocha and The Stills held at the Burroughes Building on September 12, 2009.
Ainsley Kerr attends the "Steve Nash Shoot For The Stars" at Harry Rosen, as well as the "Antichrist" North American Premiere After Party held at W Studio
on September 10, 2009.
Photographer - George Pimentel
Liz West was reporting live from the red carpet all festival long for CP24. Her wardrobe choices for all of the events were exclusively Fashion Crimes.
Co-founders of the Style Box, Amanda Brugel (at the Holt Renfrew launch) and Gail McInnes (at the "Steve Nash Shoot For The Stars" gala), both shot by photographer G.Pimentel
...and a little peek at what happens behind the scenes when dressing the stars, courtesy of The Style Box for FASHION MAGAZINE:
9.11.2009
The TIFF '09 Window Display
Our ‘09 TIFF inspired window concept had to be REALLY amazing to even come close to matching the wow-factor of the ‘08 window, which turned out to be one of our favourite displays of all time.
Last year’s TIFF tribute featured glam gowns worn by extravagantly made-up beauties strolling the red carpet, one of which who was “walking” a 7 ft. ostrich by a gem-encrusted leash. The other was being observed by 6 monkeys (taxidermy monkeys, to be exact!) who were eating popcorn.
SO, this year, needless to say, we were feeling the pressure. Upon putting our heads together, we came up with a fun concept in hopes to keep on par with the Film Festival window installations of the past.
Here is how the Brainstorm began:
For the styling we planned to dress the likes of Debbie Harry, Gwyn Stefani, Karen O, Alison Mosshart, Grace Slick, Diana Ross and Winehouse, of course. And because FALL makes for a huge stockpile of new accessories we set out to jam-pack the display with an overwhelming abundance of lavish pieces. Fall trends would be thoroughly represented with patent handbags, bulky accessories, punches of colour, a few plaid dresses (EVEN THOUGH Pam is allergic to plaid), structured silhouettes, leather gloves, shawls, cuff bracelets and pleatherette leggings.
Throughout the 19 hour production stint, Kat and Robyn (the fab production team) drank a total of 9 Red Bulls. At one point at around 1a.m., Kat mentioned feeling “very inspired towards a night of debauchery...” (Partying is infectious when you are surrounded by rock-goddesses).
From concept to creation – we were thrilled at what magically turned out by the next morning. Passers by were stopped in their tracks. Even all of our staff had to peruse the masterpiece, each for about 10 minutes.
This installation more than ever represents the designs of Fashion Crimes from over the years at its best… interpreted in a current way, just in time for the festival.
Last year’s TIFF tribute featured glam gowns worn by extravagantly made-up beauties strolling the red carpet, one of which who was “walking” a 7 ft. ostrich by a gem-encrusted leash. The other was being observed by 6 monkeys (taxidermy monkeys, to be exact!) who were eating popcorn.
SO, this year, needless to say, we were feeling the pressure. Upon putting our heads together, we came up with a fun concept in hopes to keep on par with the Film Festival window installations of the past.
Here is how the Brainstorm began:
For the styling we planned to dress the likes of Debbie Harry, Gwyn Stefani, Karen O, Alison Mosshart, Grace Slick, Diana Ross and Winehouse, of course. And because FALL makes for a huge stockpile of new accessories we set out to jam-pack the display with an overwhelming abundance of lavish pieces. Fall trends would be thoroughly represented with patent handbags, bulky accessories, punches of colour, a few plaid dresses (EVEN THOUGH Pam is allergic to plaid), structured silhouettes, leather gloves, shawls, cuff bracelets and pleatherette leggings.
Throughout the 19 hour production stint, Kat and Robyn (the fab production team) drank a total of 9 Red Bulls. At one point at around 1a.m., Kat mentioned feeling “very inspired towards a night of debauchery...” (Partying is infectious when you are surrounded by rock-goddesses).
From concept to creation – we were thrilled at what magically turned out by the next morning. Passers by were stopped in their tracks. Even all of our staff had to peruse the masterpiece, each for about 10 minutes.
This installation more than ever represents the designs of Fashion Crimes from over the years at its best… interpreted in a current way, just in time for the festival.
8.07.2009
For your Road Trip: A Fasionista's Playlist
Curious to know what Jeanne Beker is listening to this summer?
CBC Radio 2 featured the Fashion Television host's selection earlier today on Drive.
Jeanne’s Selections:
Everybody Wants To Rule The World – Tears for Fears
New Frontier – Donald Fagan
Summer Of '69 – Bryan Adams
The Long Way Home – Supertramp
I'm Leaving on a Jet Plane – Peter, Paul, and Mary
On The Road Again – Canned Heat
The Long And Winding Road – The Beatles
Good Day Sunshine – The Beatles
Just The Two Of Us – Grover Washington Jr.
Heart Of Gold – Neil Young
So Far Away – Carole King
I'm Leaving on a Jet Plane – Peter, Paul, and Mary
On The Road Again – Canned Heat
The Long And Winding Road – The Beatles
Good Day Sunshine – The Beatles
Just The Two Of Us – Grover Washington Jr.
Heart Of Gold – Neil Young
So Far Away – Carole King
The Ultimate Retail Survivor
Pam was one of the headlining Retail owners for this cover page feature in The Toronto Star by Derick Chetty.
The Style Box
The anticipated opening is upon us! Founders and owners of the Style Box, Gail McInnes and Amanda Brugel are all over the Map already, see them on E! News and in Toronto Life.
7.29.2009
7.21.2009
Jill Barber's Favourite Dresses
We, here at FC, enjoy listening to the charming melodies of this artiste almost as much as fitting and styling her for her many performances. Jill Barber's music is definitely worth uploading to your library; our favorite album is "Chances".
We anticipate some fresh lovesongs from this lyricist, as she recently disclosed her new engagement!
We anticipate some fresh lovesongs from this lyricist, as she recently disclosed her new engagement!
Jill performing at a Jazz FM Fundraiser. Photograpy: Romy Shinder.
Here, Jill is pictured with David Fransen, Canadian Consul General in Los Angeles
at his official residence where she recently performed.
at his official residence where she recently performed.
GUNK: The Daily Strokes of a Make-Up Artist
Vol. 2
Fellow Fashion Crimes stylist Robyn Lianne gets a Zooey Deschanel inspired make-up look.
Here’s how you can snag it with (with MAC)!
Fellow Fashion Crimes stylist Robyn Lianne gets a Zooey Deschanel inspired make-up look.
Here’s how you can snag it with (with MAC)!
A liberal application of Studio Fix Fluid in NC15 was applied to Robyn’s face to give her that milky complexion and powder pressed pores, for the perfect photograph.
Paint Pot in Bare Study was then stippled onto the eyelid using the 249 large shadow brush. Special attention was paid to the lower lash line, blending Paint Pot slightly with the foundation under the eye which gives a smooth transition from pinkish tones to more yellow in the foundation.
A crease is then defined by patting Wedge eye shadow, which is a medium brown, into the crease line and then blending outward to contour the eye.
Jet black liquid liner is applied over the upper lash line and plucked out in a slight wisp, building its thickness mid-eye to give a ‘cuter-than-cute’ baby doll eye shape.
Using Silver Dusk Iridescent Powder and a small fluff brush, a small dusting is applied to the brow bone and eyelid. Doing this can blur harsh edges and give a nice glow to the eye area.
A small coating of mascara is used to intensify the eyes, opening them up and giving them a ‘wide-awake’ appearance; just like Miss Deschanel.
After the eyes are complete the lips are next to be defined.
Using Pinky Eyeliner, which is exclusively sold at MAC Pro stores only, line the lips in a sweetheart cut, dipping down on the cupids bow of the lips. This will give that carved look that Zoey is known for. With a clean brush blend Mauvelous Lipstick over top and seal the deal with a top coat of clear lip gloss.
Use these two blushes to get the flushed and contoured look. Layer both Tantone and Breath of Plum blushers to the face. Both have a matte finish so it will appear more natural and will be more striking when photographed.
7.15.2009
7.08.2009
GUNK: The Daily Strokes of a Make-Up Artist
When Dana and I were dreaming up a story for this editorial, the words, ‘What would a fashionable alien do if she came to Earth,’ came to mind.
Recently I was asked by photographer, and close friend Dana Brushette, to be on set as a make-up artist for an editorial shoot for
I quickly responded with a “YES!” Having worked with her before many times I knew there was nothing more exiting than being on set with her.
After days of mulling over the make-up looks to be delivered for this shoot, I thought that a little improvisation would be best. Since I had never worked with designer Stephanie Connell, hair stylist Andrea Harrison, or model Joanna Eggett before, I thought I would wait until I got the full team together to create any make-up looks.
Upon meeting the fabulous trio, getting a closer look at the designs, and meeting with Andrew and bouncing ideas off one another, I knew I had a vision in mind.
With studio fix fluid, and a heavy dusting of powder, I matted Joanna’s face; giving it that dried up look. After we finished the base I swept a soft brown under her eyes, and etched an angular shape into the inner corners of her lids, highlighting it with a white to intensify her eye shape.
Her brows were strong, and stood alone, so I simply extended them to reach the contours of her eye shadow.
I applied a thick coat of mascara to her top lashes only, and rimmed her waterline with my favorite eyeliner Smolder, by MAC Cosmetics. For the first two looks I dulled her lips, concealing them, giving her a very high fashion look. I reminded the team about the importance of the balance in make-up artistry. Because of her strong brow, dark hair and the complexity of Stephanie’s designs, going over board on the made-up could potentially ruin the look. “Always find the balance.”
The last time I shot with Dana Brushette was late winter, at the Gladstone Hotel here in
This time we had sunlight! And summer heat! So, after two hours or so of hair and make-up we all packed up our kits and moved outside to catch some rays while we watched the model work her wear, and showcase some elegant Fashion Crimes pieces.
Model Joanna Eggett elegantly portrays a fashionable alien, wearing her futuristic outfit by designer Stephanie Connell. The silver and metallic plum colors played well with one of Fashion Crimes most lovable pieces; THE BENDY!
Follow my blog and see the world through my eyes!
Your one and only boy,
6.22.2009
Cutaneous Care with Carly
BEAUTIFUL DRESS, PERFECT SHOES, CUTE DATE; NOW WHAT....?!
What about your skin? This column will entail a few basic things every girl should know about skin care and how to keep it glowing!
First thing is first, keep your germy hands away from your beautiful face! No really! Think about how many different surfaces you touch daily compared to how often you thoroughly wash your hands.
Now that we got that reality check out of the way, time to get down to business.
Let’s talk sebum glands (Sebaceous glands) they are microscopic glands in the skin which secrete an oily matter (sebum), in the hair follicles, to lubricate the skin and hair of animals. In humans, they are found in their greatest abundance on the face and scalp, though they are distributed throughout all skin sites, excluding the palms and soles, of your hands and feet respectively. Basically, these glands produce your natural skin oils. Sometimes you have oily skin and its because these glands are over producing the oils. In that case you need to suppress the glands so they don’t produce as much oil.
Ways to mange oily skin include; using a cleanser with bacteria fighting oils but also ingredients that absorb excess oil. Ingredients such as charcoal & liquorish root mattify the skin. These can be found in Lush Cosmetics Coal Face Soap ($10.95 per 100 grams). Another important ingredient is Tea Tree oil, which acts as a natural antibacterial/antiseptic formula to disinfect from the bacteria that can be caused by over active oil production. A few products with tea tree oil to keep your skin and even oiler body looking good are Lush Cosmetics Fresh Farmacy ($9.95 per 100grams) or Body shop’s Foaming Tea Tree Oil face Soap($16.50 per 100ml)
When you have under productive Sebaceous glands your skin is not producing enough of its own natural oils. In this case, you still need to maintain your healthy skin by cleansing regularly and using more gentle ingredients. Ingredients such as lavender, chamomile, and aloe vera are all very soothing to dry skin but will also help to calm down any redness or irritation (also good for sunburned skin!). Even seaweed is another good ingredient that promotes moisture in the skin. Try a Paradise Regained Moisturizer from Lush Cosmetics ($45.95 per 45gram pot) rich with Vitamin E, Green Tea and Jojoba oil! (That is my moisturizer! I Love it!) Or Body Shop’s Vitamin E Line; Vitamin E can be found in essential oils such as lavender and almond oils which promotes elasticity in the skin.
Now that we recognize our type of sebum glands we must understand them. Despite having oily or dry skin we still need a good moisturizer!
When you have overactive sebum glands, to put it simply, you need to tell them to calm down. When we sleep our body relaxes and that is when most of our natural oils are produced. In order to have them calm down you actually need to use a heavier moisturizer at night. Using this heavier moisturizer encourages your sebum glands to not need to work as hard, through continuing this pattern it should over time help to suppress your sebum glands and cause your skin to become more ‘normal’.
Just the opposite is necessary to speed up your sebum glands in dry skin. By using a light moisturizer at night, or none at all, will wake up your lazy glands and let them know they need to start producing.
One last little tip about these glands, they do not exist around your eyes or on your neck which is why the effects of ageing appear there first causing you to use a eye and neck cream. Try finding one with JOBJA Oil this is a natural oil that is almost identical in texture to your sebum oils. This will help to prevent or prolong the effects of aging around the eyes and sagging of the neck.
These are just a few simple things to help you understand your skin. They are some of the most important things that can help you in the future to maintaining the youthfulness of your skin.
For more information on Products Mentioned Check out Lush and the Body Shop.
Stay tuned for Part II – fast fixes and home remedies!
What about your skin? This column will entail a few basic things every girl should know about skin care and how to keep it glowing!
First thing is first, keep your germy hands away from your beautiful face! No really! Think about how many different surfaces you touch daily compared to how often you thoroughly wash your hands.
Now that we got that reality check out of the way, time to get down to business.
Let’s talk sebum glands (Sebaceous glands) they are microscopic glands in the skin which secrete an oily matter (sebum), in the hair follicles, to lubricate the skin and hair of animals. In humans, they are found in their greatest abundance on the face and scalp, though they are distributed throughout all skin sites, excluding the palms and soles, of your hands and feet respectively. Basically, these glands produce your natural skin oils. Sometimes you have oily skin and its because these glands are over producing the oils. In that case you need to suppress the glands so they don’t produce as much oil.
Ways to mange oily skin include; using a cleanser with bacteria fighting oils but also ingredients that absorb excess oil. Ingredients such as charcoal & liquorish root mattify the skin. These can be found in Lush Cosmetics Coal Face Soap ($10.95 per 100 grams). Another important ingredient is Tea Tree oil, which acts as a natural antibacterial/antiseptic formula to disinfect from the bacteria that can be caused by over active oil production. A few products with tea tree oil to keep your skin and even oiler body looking good are Lush Cosmetics Fresh Farmacy ($9.95 per 100grams) or Body shop’s Foaming Tea Tree Oil face Soap($16.50 per 100ml)When you have under productive Sebaceous glands your skin is not producing enough of its own natural oils. In this case, you still need to maintain your healthy skin by cleansing regularly and using more gentle ingredients. Ingredients such as lavender, chamomile, and aloe vera are all very soothing to dry skin but will also help to calm down any redness or irritation (also good for sunburned skin!). Even seaweed is another good ingredient that promotes moisture in the skin. Try a Paradise Regained Moisturizer from Lush Cosmetics ($45.95 per 45gram pot) rich with Vitamin E, Green Tea and Jojoba oil! (That is my moisturizer! I Love it!) Or Body Shop’s Vitamin E Line; Vitamin E can be found in essential oils such as lavender and almond oils which promotes elasticity in the skin.
Now that we recognize our type of sebum glands we must understand them. Despite having oily or dry skin we still need a good moisturizer!
When you have overactive sebum glands, to put it simply, you need to tell them to calm down. When we sleep our body relaxes and that is when most of our natural oils are produced. In order to have them calm down you actually need to use a heavier moisturizer at night. Using this heavier moisturizer encourages your sebum glands to not need to work as hard, through continuing this pattern it should over time help to suppress your sebum glands and cause your skin to become more ‘normal’.
Just the opposite is necessary to speed up your sebum glands in dry skin. By using a light moisturizer at night, or none at all, will wake up your lazy glands and let them know they need to start producing.
One last little tip about these glands, they do not exist around your eyes or on your neck which is why the effects of ageing appear there first causing you to use a eye and neck cream. Try finding one with JOBJA Oil this is a natural oil that is almost identical in texture to your sebum oils. This will help to prevent or prolong the effects of aging around the eyes and sagging of the neck.
These are just a few simple things to help you understand your skin. They are some of the most important things that can help you in the future to maintaining the youthfulness of your skin.
For more information on Products Mentioned Check out Lush and the Body Shop.
Stay tuned for Part II – fast fixes and home remedies!
6.18.2009
Steph's First Post!
So, my very first blog entry!
Whatever will I write? I did wonder…
I decided on a subject that is very close to my heart and everyone should have some sort of experience with it….can you guess what it is??? PROM!!!!!
Ok, so, let me take you back 5 years. I’m 15, finishing my final exams at school in a small English town, Rugby (yes, like the games). The world is my oyster and I have to find my prom dress.
At first I wanted an Indian themed dress (sari), but after weeks of searching to no avail, I looked to broaden my horizons.
I was shopping in Birmingham (home of Ozzy Osbourne, Cat Deeley and Nick Rhodes) and I spotted a black corset, which, at first, I did not care much for, but was forced to try it on by my Mother. I surprisingly felt like a million bucks! My next mission was to find a bottom to match my top. Soon after I found a tutu for £20 and my Mum slaved over a sewing machine, made in the 50’s, to make a crinoline for me to wear underneath. If only there was a Fashion Crimes in Rugby.
I also decided that that my short brown hair was waaaayyyyyyy to boring, so I spent six and a half hours in the hairdressers getting it cut and dyed. Into what? I hear you asking. Isn’t it obvious? A peroxide blonde Mohawk, of course.
Next, SHOES! I spotted these OUTSTANDING ‘New Rock’ boots (which I would not dare wear now, but thought they were cool at the time). As for the jewelry I wore, I decided to accessorize with a dainty rhinestone, heart necklace with matching earrings and vintage lace gloves. To complete the look I was going for I was literally covered in glitter; my entire face was covered (I love shiny things :).
So, the night finally arrives. My Mum and I went to pick up my two very best friends, Rachel and Hanns. Rachel is wearing pink and black (same look as myself, which is a bit of a faux pas, but oh well) and Hanns in yellow and white.
We arrived at the venue and I literally felt like a rockstar. Everywhere there were people with cameras. There were drunken teachers, limos, men in suits; just another day in Rugby.
All of my friends looked amazing, like I had never seen them before, or since for that matter. It was an unforgettable night filled with dancing and laughter.
I hope everyone has an amazing prom this year! PLEASE send us your photos and stories in your Fashion Crimes dresses and you, too, could be featured in our blog.
Until next time,
Your British Best Friend
Steph x
Whatever will I write? I did wonder…
I decided on a subject that is very close to my heart and everyone should have some sort of experience with it….can you guess what it is??? PROM!!!!!
Ok, so, let me take you back 5 years. I’m 15, finishing my final exams at school in a small English town, Rugby (yes, like the games). The world is my oyster and I have to find my prom dress.
At first I wanted an Indian themed dress (sari), but after weeks of searching to no avail, I looked to broaden my horizons.
I was shopping in Birmingham (home of Ozzy Osbourne, Cat Deeley and Nick Rhodes) and I spotted a black corset, which, at first, I did not care much for, but was forced to try it on by my Mother. I surprisingly felt like a million bucks! My next mission was to find a bottom to match my top. Soon after I found a tutu for £20 and my Mum slaved over a sewing machine, made in the 50’s, to make a crinoline for me to wear underneath. If only there was a Fashion Crimes in Rugby.
I also decided that that my short brown hair was waaaayyyyyyy to boring, so I spent six and a half hours in the hairdressers getting it cut and dyed. Into what? I hear you asking. Isn’t it obvious? A peroxide blonde Mohawk, of course.
Next, SHOES! I spotted these OUTSTANDING ‘New Rock’ boots (which I would not dare wear now, but thought they were cool at the time). As for the jewelry I wore, I decided to accessorize with a dainty rhinestone, heart necklace with matching earrings and vintage lace gloves. To complete the look I was going for I was literally covered in glitter; my entire face was covered (I love shiny things :).
So, the night finally arrives. My Mum and I went to pick up my two very best friends, Rachel and Hanns. Rachel is wearing pink and black (same look as myself, which is a bit of a faux pas, but oh well) and Hanns in yellow and white.
We arrived at the venue and I literally felt like a rockstar. Everywhere there were people with cameras. There were drunken teachers, limos, men in suits; just another day in Rugby.
All of my friends looked amazing, like I had never seen them before, or since for that matter. It was an unforgettable night filled with dancing and laughter.
I hope everyone has an amazing prom this year! PLEASE send us your photos and stories in your Fashion Crimes dresses and you, too, could be featured in our blog.
Until next time,
Your British Best Friend
Steph x
Queen West History
As you may know, Fashion Crimes is one of the only original establishments remaining on Queen Street West since the take-over of the big-box chain stores, starting with the GAP in 1995.
We are always happy and willing to share the history of Pam & FC and thought that we would dig a little deeper to reveal some more information for you. The person to go-to for this task is the man who knows the city's roots better than anyone, Toronto historian Bruce Bell. Bruce has been a grand friend of FC for many years; this opportunity to feature him within the blog is very exciting! You may have heard him (many times) featured during interviews and special segments on CBC radio or Breakfast Television.
Bruce found plenty of great shots while compiling information for the feature about one of your favourite Toronto neighbourhoods, subsequently posted.
The storefront to the furthest left side is where you will now find Fashion Crimes.
(1910)
The building featured here is now CIBC. Aside from a few small details in the architecture it is almost hard to believe that this is Queen & Spadina. (c 1900)
"Midtown Upholstry Sales" is now the Addidas store, and the beloved "Barney's" has become a "BBQ Express". (1957)
All photos courtesy of Toronto Public Library
The dashing and ever so eloquent Bruce Bell.
We are always happy and willing to share the history of Pam & FC and thought that we would dig a little deeper to reveal some more information for you. The person to go-to for this task is the man who knows the city's roots better than anyone, Toronto historian Bruce Bell. Bruce has been a grand friend of FC for many years; this opportunity to feature him within the blog is very exciting! You may have heard him (many times) featured during interviews and special segments on CBC radio or Breakfast Television.
Bruce found plenty of great shots while compiling information for the feature about one of your favourite Toronto neighbourhoods, subsequently posted.
The storefront to the furthest left side is where you will now find Fashion Crimes.
(1910)
The building featured here is now CIBC. Aside from a few small details in the architecture it is almost hard to believe that this is Queen & Spadina. (c 1900)
"Midtown Upholstry Sales" is now the Addidas store, and the beloved "Barney's" has become a "BBQ Express". (1957)
All photos courtesy of Toronto Public Library
A Short History of Queen Street West
Queen Street for its first sixty years was referred to as Lot Street as it was once the northern boundary of the original city when the rich and powerful families were given ‘lots’ from present day Queen to Bloor Street to build their great homes.
The largest estate above Lot Street the Grange, once home to the Boulton family is now encased within the Art Gallery of Ontario.
With its sweeping lawn and long carriage drive this great Georgian home on the edge of town was then surrounded by a forest of trees and babbling streams was for over 100 years the centre of social life in Toronto.
Today John Street from Queen northwards to the Grange was once a tree lined carriage way leading up to the great manor home.
In 1851 as Toronto grew and the boundaries were expanded Lot Street was renamed Queen Street for Queen Victoria.
The term ‘Queen West’ the area generally known as the section between University Avenue and Spadina generally refers to the collection of neighbourhoods that have developed along and around the thoroughfare and today has become a vernacular for all things trendy and stylish.
The earliest known nighbourhood to spring up along Queen West around the mid-19th century was known as Claretown, an Irish immigrant enclave around Queen Street West and Bathurst Street.
In the 1890s to the 1930s, Jewish immigrants came into the neighbourhood then known as "the Ward" (after St John’s Ward, its voting ward name) and during this time the garment trade was born making Spadina and Queen the centre of the city’s clothing industry.
During World War II Queen Street between University and Spadina became lined with inexpensive appliance stores, greasy spoon restaurants and second hand clothing stores.
From the 1950s through the 1970s gentrification of the area caused most recent immigrants to move to more reasonably priced areas of the city and Queen West like other up-and-coming areas of Toronto became lined with boutiques, chain stores, restaurants and all night clubs.
During its long and varied history Queen West has managed to hold on to its unique allure with classic hangouts like the still thriving Rivoli and Horseshoe Tavern and in keeping with its garment trade history the totally unique clothing boutique Fashion Crimes all giving the street its matchless charm that has endured to this day.
The dashing and ever so eloquent Bruce Bell.
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